The Star Gem in February

The Mystical Amethyst
The stunning color purple, the color of Royalty and also the mystical color of the Amethyst. Both the color purple and Gem have extremely powerful and spiritual vibrations. The Amethyst a purple variety of quartz, is the gemstone of choice for psychics as it can take you to higher states of consciousness. Develop your intuition and open those chakras. It is also attributed to strong healing and cleansing of Body, Mind and Soul.

If you feel your mind is wandering, and scattered, Amethyst will help you refocus, and bring you spiritual insights and a better ability in decision making.

The most protective of all crystals, the Amethyst is known as the all-healer. Are you having problems getting a good night sleep or suffering headaches lately? Wearing an Amethyst while sleeping can help you rest. It would also be a wonderful gemstone to take along to work, it will sooth you and guard you against anxiety, anger and impatience. If your daily tasks are overwhelming you at work, the Amethyst will be the gemstone to sooth you. Place an Amethyst on your computer table to avoid eye strain.

Indeed the healing properties of the Amethyst are many. The name comes from the Greek αμέθυστος amethystos and μεθύσκω methysko / μεθώ metho, "intoxicate", a reference to the belief that the stone protected its owner from drunkenness. Greeks believed in the healing qualities of amethysts, they weren't the only European country to do so. Many cultures throughout the world were drawn to the magic of this mesmerizing, mystical gem. Ancient Egyptians gave another meaning to the crystals and were wearing jewelry with amethyst to protect against guilty and fearful feelings, along with a protection from witchcraft. There are examples of the amethyst stone being used in Egypt as far back to 4000 BC.

Rome: The Romans also believed they would be protected from drunkenness if they consumed wine in a cup festooned with amethysts. The elegant drinking vessels represented the mystical power of the amethyst.

Britain: Power, wealth, and royalty were often associated with the color purple. In fact, the British adorned the crowns of royal family members with radiant amethyst jewelry.

Russia: The Russians also decorated the jewelry and crowns of their royalty with a plenty of amethyst jewelry. Catherine the Great adored the purple stone and required the stone be used in all of her personal articles.

Catholicism: Bishops wore amethyst jewelry to protect them from the unholy effects of being drunk. The holy men often wore rings made of amethyst to protect them on a daily basis.

Christianity: The spiritual connotation of the semi-precious stone is often compared with Christ. The deep purple color is believed to symbolize Christ's agony in the crucifixion.

Judaism: the Hebrew word for amethyst, "ahlamah", translates to "dream stone". Jews believed the gem caused powerful dreams. Amethyst also symbolized one of the 12 Tribes of Israel and adorned the breastplate of the high priest, Aaron.

Buddhism: Tibetan Buddhists often linked the spiritual quality of amethysts with Buddha. Amethyst beads are used in meditation practices.

Amethyst is a semi precious gemstone that has been around for centuries; one of the most serene gemstones out there. Since the relatively recent discovery of major deposits in South America, amethyst has lost its value but still is considered the most popular gem for its uses and metaphysical properties.

MODERN SOCIETY
These days Amethyst is the gem used to celebrate February birthdays, as well as the sixth anniversary. Fashion conscious consumers find the perfect purple hue of Amethyst appealing, especially in larger sizes. The plum hues of Amethyst make it an ideal accessory for fall and winter phantasmagorical clothing. With a hardness of 7, Amethyst is a good choice for dress and special occasion wear and with proper care makes a great everyday accessory.

If you have old rings with the Amethyst stone that you no longer wear because you don't like the style, we can redesign a new piece for your beautiful Amethyst to reign on! Or if you would like to purchase this stone, come visit us and browse our showcases, we'll can also show you samples of stones, various sizes and work with you on a new piece.

CARE
Amethyst is rated “good” for everyday wear. Avoid direct sunlight and exposure to heat which may cause color to fade. To clean, gently scrub with a soft toothbrush and a solution of mild dish soap and warm water.

MAJOR SOURCES
Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia

QUALITY INFORMATION

AAA: Deep purple, little or no color zoning; eye clean to slight imperfections; good cut

AA: Medium to medium dark purple, little or no color zoning; eye clean to slight imperfections; good cut

A: Light to medium purple, little or no color zoning; eye clean to slight imperfections; good cut

B: Light purple, little or no color zoning; eye clean to slight imperfections